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The EU's other 'Union': Can energy unite Europe?
[The German Marshall Fund via The Christian Science Monitor]“For the Energy Union to work, Brussels needs to quickly convince member states to support a durable European solution to their energy challenges, even if it means putting up with the bureaucracy inherent to EU decision-making,” writes Kristine Berzina of The German Marshall Fund. “Framing the Energy Union in terms of ‘true solidarity and trust’ is not enough. Brussels needs to show concrete benefits.”

Why $100 Oil Won't Be Coming Back for a Long Time [Bloomberg]It was supposed to be shale’s weakness: Wells produce a quick burst of oil after drilling, followed by a drop off in output. But in a low price environment that weakness has become a strength, and analysts say the “nimble” nature of low-investment, quick-return shale makes it the swing producer. Oil prices could stay low – between $50 and $75 a barrel – for several years, analysts say, and shale will be the force that pushes prices down when they rise.

Japan’s Growth in Solar Power Falters as Utilities Balk
[The New York Times]Post-Fukushima, Japan turned away from nuclear and looked to the sun for clean power. But electric utilities there are skeptical they can manage the glut of solar power Japanese entrepreneurs hope to put on the grid. The country’s quest for a new clean energy source might hinge on how committed Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is to making solar competitive with the fossil fuels, which have picked up the slack for Japan’s 50 closed reactors.

Energy sources

Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang via Reuters: "We will strive for zero-growth in the consumption of coal in key areas of the country ... Environmental pollution is a blight on people's quality of life and a trouble that weighs on their hearts."

UK Energy Minister Matthew Hancock: "Together with Mexico’s energy ambitions and the UK’s wealth of experience and expertise, now more than ever there are unparalleled opportunities for partnership across business and education."

European Commission: "The EU and its Member States are committed to a binding target of an at least 40% domestic reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990, to be fulfilled jointly ..."